The Poompuhar showroom is holding its annual exhibition-cum- sale ‘Craft of Tamil Nadu’.

Situated at the Big Bazaar Street here, Poompuhar is a division of the Tamil Nadu Handicrafts Development Corporation. Hand-crafted art work are on display to attract the NRIs, who are currently in the city for annual vacation.

“We have hosted our crafts of Tamil Nadu exhibition and sale during this month as this is time NRIs come home. Through this exhibition we are providing a platform for the artisans to display their handmade art – wooden toys, pencil sketchings, jewellery and candles. This is a good chance for the NRIs also to buy good stuff created by artisans from the State,” R. Narendra Bose, manager of Poompuhar sales showroom says.

Coconut shells are polished, painted and converted into bangles, pen stands and bangle stands. “They are eco friendly. Wooden toys with non toxic and child friendly paints are also on display,” he adds.

On display are a few portraits created by Lokesh, a college student. Handmade and terracotta jewellery, including chains, ear rings occupy a separate section.

Perfumed candles decorated with artificial flowers in different shapes and sizes by Annamalai Pillai occupy another counter. “The candles last for even one year when they are lit only on Sundays during prayer time. Most of my customers are Christians who purchase it exclusively for Sunday prayers,” he says.

Other artisans whose works are on display are Surendar. A, R. Brinda and C. Ashok.

The sale will conclude tomorrow. The showroom offers 10 per cent discount on all its purchases. The showroom is open between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m.